<p>So I've pretty much narrowed my college decisions down to Penn, UVa, and UT. The latter are offering me very generous scholarships, UVa offering a full ride (Minority). However, I've fallen head over heels for Penn, and really can't see myself enjoying my collegiate experience at another university. But, sadly, Penn only gave me $3000 in Federal loans. My parents likely could afford it, although it would be a monumental strain on them, especially as they are both nearing the age of mandatory retirement. Does anyone think that Penn would be slightly sympathetic to my plight hopefully through offering around $10-15K in grants, which would definitely make my matriculating more reasonable to my family? I know I ought to call the Financial Aid office, and I do plan on doing so, but I just don't want to get my hopes up for no reason. Also, there are likely students whose parents make far less than mine, and more likely more deserving of financial aid (parents salary is around $150-180K), which is why I don't know if they'd budge.</p>
<p>I'm wondering about this as well. Although I received a good financial aid package from Penn, the amount I have to pay is still a hefty sum. Would personally visiting the financial aid office alleviate anything?</p>